Summary

The article emphasizes the importance of understanding why a habit is significant to an individual as a key factor in making new habits stick, drawing on Dr. Sean Young's concept of the "Force of Importance" from his book 'Stick With It.'

Abstract

The article "Change Process, Not Personality (3 — Importance)" delves into the significance of the 'Force of Importance' in establishing and maintaining new habits. Contrary to the traditional belief that laziness or a lack of grit and willpower are the primary obstacles to forming new habits, Dr. Sean Young suggests that a systematic and research-backed process is crucial. The author explores Young's concept of the Forces of Science, focusing on the third force—importance. The article advises readers to ask themselves why a habit is important to them personally, as this self-reflection can provide intrinsic motivation. The author shares their own experience of the power of importance in sustaining the habit of reading with their son, attributing the success to the desire for a close bond and the cognitive benefits for their child. To harness this force, the article suggests readers ponder a series of reflective questions to uncover what truly matters to them, which can fuel persistence in their habits and lead to self-improvement and a better way of life.

Opinions

Dr. Sean Young's research indicates that a systematic approach, rather than just willpower, is essential for forming lasting habits.
The author rates the 'Force of Importance' highly, giving it five stars for its role in their personal habit formation.
Self-inquiry about the personal significance of a habit is presented as a powerful tool for maintaining motivation.
The article suggests that habits tied to deeply held values or desired outcomes are more likely to be adhered to.
The author believes that the impact of a habit on one's future, self-image, work, earnings, relationships, spiritual life, and social connections can be significant motivators.

Change Process, Not Personality (3 — Importance)

How the ‘Force of Importance’ can help your new habits

**(Image Created by Author in Canva using AI)**

When Habits Don’t Stick

If you want to grow and become better as a person, you need new habits. And the habits need to stick for a lasting change.

Conventional wisdom says you cannot make new habits stick because you are lazy or need more grit and willpower.

But according to Dr. Sean Young, science says otherwise — you need a systematic and researched process. He describes this in his book ‘Stick With It.’

I’m exploring his concept of the Forces of Science to make lasting habits in the series — Change Process, Not Personality.

This is the third force — the Force of Importance!

Ask This — Why Is The Habit Important To You?

If you find it difficult to make a habit stick, ask yourself this question.

Sometimes, asking the right questions and discovering the answers yourself will go a long way in keeping you on track.

When something is really important to a person, for example — physical health, it might be easier for that person to stick with the new habit of going to the gym daily.

The effect of exercise, i.e., better health, is important to that person; hence, they will be motivated to continue going to the gym daily.

Image by Author from Canva by hh5800 (@gettysignature)

My experience — Force of Importance (* * * * *)

How was ‘Importance’ significant in my being able to keep up with the daily habit of reading books with my son for 5 years and over 1000 books?

Two things were definitely of prime importance to me:

Developing a strong and close bond with my son
Taking advantage of the Neuroscience Study about Reading so that my son could benefit greatly in cognitive and brain development.

So, in my experience, this factor greatly influenced me in keeping up with the habit. These reasons were extremely important to me.

I give the ‘Force of Importance’ 5 stars (* * * * *) for my journey.

How To Harness This Force For Our Habits?

Scan these questions. See if they help analyze the importance of your new habit.

Ask questions like these to receive the deep-rooted answers from within you about what is really important to you.

Find out what are the burning desires of your heart and soul that you want to live and become better for.

Once you find the answers, it will help you stick with the habits when you feel like giving up.

Some questions to guide you —

For the habit that you are struggling with, what is the reason that you want it to last?
Is the habit going to be very impactful in your life?
What is the change that it is going to bring about?
How important is that change for your future life?
Will you be a better and more effective person once you stick with that habit?
Is this improved and better self-image important to you?
Will it help you work better or earn better and improve your way of life?
Is the better way of life (more money, better work, etc.) important to you?
Will the new habit help improve your relationships and social connections?
Is a stronger relationship or well-connected social life important to you?
Do you want to be more devoted to your spiritual or meditational life? Is it important for you in this phase of your life?

I hope you found this story useful and that you will use it on your journey to becoming a better and more effective person.

Thank you for reading!